A Note To You

Counsellor Qualifications and Approach

I am the counsellor behind Chamomile Time, providing counselling and emotional support for individuals in Singapore navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions and relationship challenges.

I hold a Master of Counselling from Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). I am also working towards membership with the Singapore Association for Counselling and practise in accordance with their professional Code of Ethics.

To support clients using evidence-based approaches, I have completed specialised training in several short-term therapeutic methods.

Professional Training

• Essentials of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - Beginner and Depression and Anxiety Disorders Training

As part of my professional interest in grief, bereavement and loss, I have also completed specialised courses from the Portland Institute for Loss and Transition, including:

• Introduction to Grief and Its Complications

• An Integrated Model for the Bereaved

• Grief Therapy as Meaning Reconstruction (8-Hour Practicum)

These trainings support my work with individuals coping with grief, emotional loss, anxiety and difficult life transitions.

What is Chamomile Time?

Chamomile Time is the name I give to my counselling sessions.

I chose this name because the word counselling sometimes carries stigma or negative associations. Some people may remember mandatory counselling in school or workplace settings and feel hesitant about seeking support.

My goal is to gently reshape that perception.

Counselling does not have to be a last-resort solution when life feels overwhelming. It can also be a preventive and supportive space for reflection, self-care and personal growth.

At Chamomile Time, I aim to create a calm and welcoming environment where you can:

• speak openly about your concerns

• explore your thoughts and emotions safely

• challenge unhelpful thinking patterns

• reconnect with your values and direction in life

Think of Chamomile Time as a dedicated moment to pause, reflect and care for your mental wellbeing.

What to Expect in Counselling?

EEffective counselling depends greatly on the relationship between client and counsellor.

Trust takes time to build, and it is completely normal to feel uncertain or slightly uncomfortable during the first few sessions. Every counsellor has a unique style and approach. If you feel that our sessions are not the right fit for you, that does not mean counselling cannot help. It may simply mean another counsellor’s approach suits you better.

My counselling approach is integrative, drawing from several evidence-based therapeutic models.

Therapeutic Approaches I Use

Person-Centred Therapy

This approach is based on the belief that individuals have the inner capacity to understand themselves and find their own solutions. Sessions focus on developing self-awareness, self-reflection and emotional understanding.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals recognise patterns of thinking that may contribute to emotional distress or unhelpful behaviours. Together, we examine these thought patterns and develop healthier and more balanced perspectives.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT teaches skills to accept difficult thoughts and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. The goal is to help you reconnect with your personal values and move toward meaningful actions.

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy focuses on separating the person from the problem. Instead of seeing yourself as the problem, we explore the story surrounding the challenge and identify your strengths and capabilities to reduce its influence on your life.

What Happens During a Session?

During counselling sessions, you can expect to:

• Have open conversations about your experiences and concerns

• Answer questions that help me understand your situation better

• Reflect on thoughts, emotions and behavioural patterns

• Participate in simple therapeutic exercises when appropriate

• Receive practical strategies or small exercises to try between sessions

Counselling is not an instant solution, but a process that supports you in developing skills and insight to navigate life’s challenges more confidently.

It is also important to understand that counsellors do not give direct advice or impose personal opinions. The focus is on helping you discover your own answers and strengthen your own decision-making.

Your Role in the Counselling Process

You may find counselling most helpful when you:

• Feel comfortable sharing openly

• Are honest about your thoughts and emotions

• Ask questions about the counselling process

• Communicate if something feels uncomfortable or difficult to discuss

• Provide feedback so sessions can be adjusted to support you better

We will always work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a core part of ethical counselling practice.

As a counsellor, I am committed to protecting the privacy of everything shared during our sessions. Because I practise privately, our conversations are not shared with your workplace, school or family members without your consent.

There are, however, a few legal and ethical exceptions where confidentiality may need to be broken:

• When required by a valid court order

• When there is risk of harm to yourself or others

• When child abuse or elder abuse is suspected

• When hospitalisation is required for safety reasons

Counsellors also participate in professional supervision, where we consult with experienced supervisors to ensure we provide the best possible care for clients. During supervision, identifying information such as your name or personal details is never disclosed.

“We think we listen, but rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy.  Yet listening of this very special kind is one of the most potent forces for change that I know.”

~ Carl Rogers, founder of person-centered therapy